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The California Senate recently approved SB655, a.k.a. The Asbestos Hazards Mapping Act, which, in addition to requiring the State Geologist to compile maps identifying asbestos hazard zones within the State, provides a new "asbestos hazard zone" disclosure requirement for sellers of real property. The Senate further recommended that the bill "eventually contain prohibitions on the sale of products and services in California involving material that includes naturally-occurring asbestos."
California’s State Geologist reports that naturally-occurring asbestos (NOA) is located in 49 of California’s 58 counties. Of the 26 counties where expanding populations and growth are likely to encroach upon and potentially disturb NOA, three ( El Dorado, Sacramento, and Placer Counties ) have procedures in place for the mapping of their naturally-occurring asbestos hazards.
With mounting public concerns about potential health risks associated with exposure to asbestos in the natural setting, the Senate seeks to require the mapping of NOA, disclosures to property buyers, and mitigation measures to be taken by developers.
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